Days of heavy rain and potentially severe nor’westerly gales are on the cards for much of the South Island and road users are being encouraged to prepare and factor this into any travel plans.

MetService has orange heavy rain warnings in place for the Buller and Westland districts, and Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound. This orange level of warning means that surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible.

The Fiordland warning is from noon today to 9am tomorrow, Westland from 6pm today to 6pm tomorrow, and Buller from 9am tomorrow to 5pm Friday.

In addition, heavy rain watches are in place for the Grey District, the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur's Pass, and the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers, where the amount of rainfall may approach warning criteria.

Heavy rain means slippery roads and drivers should think about adjusting their speed and travelling distances, avoiding sudden braking, and staying visible. New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) also urges road users not to try to travel through floodwaters where the risks may not be obvious.

MetService is also predicting “with moderate confidence” that severe northwest gales will impact the Canterbury high country through to Marlborough on Friday and Saturday of this week.

NZTA urges extra care when travelling in strong winds, especially those in high-sided or towing vehicles and on motorcycles.

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